Highlights Drum and percussion instruments used in traditional Chinese Opera • 3GB library includes contemporary Chinese percussion instruments • Best Service Engine 2 provides an easy-to-use interface and realtime control over essential parameters • playable MIDI templates include the intricate rhythm patterns of traditional Chinese operaTarget Market Recordists and songwriters seeking unusual percussion soundsAnalysis One way to differentiate recordings is to use novel sounds; while this library is useful for Chinese-related soundtracks, it can add exotic flavors to any type of music.soundsonline.com

2

Lauten Audio FC-387 AtlantisLarge-diaphragm condenser $1,599

Highlights 31.25mm dual large diaphragm pressure-gradient transducer mic • multiple switches for functional versatility • polar pattern switch offers cardioid, omnidirectional, or figure-8 patterns • solid-state FET internal preamp • –10dB and +10dB switch • voicing switch provides three timbres (Gentle, Neutral, and Forward) • individually hand tuned capsuleTarget Market Engineers who benefit from having a single mic suitable for multiple sound sourcesAnalysis It’s getting to the point where it’s not enough for a mic to offer a single “sound.” Atlantis’ configuration options place it in a new generation of versatile mics.lautenaudio.com

3Native Instruments The GiantVirtual piano $119

Highlights Virtual piano instrument based on the Klavins Piano Model 370i, the world’s biggest upright piano • compatible with Kontakt 5 and the free Kontakt Player • 40 production-ready presets • Includes two versions: “Day,” for multiple genres and styles, and “Night,” featuring unconventional samples suited for atmospheric scores, sound design, and avant garde productionsTarget Market Keyboard players who want a huge piano sound for performance or recordingAnalysis You could never own dozens of physical pianos, let alone one like “the Giant”—but sampling technology makes accessing these sounds possible.native-instruments.com

Highlights Durable cast-aluminum housing • dual TRS expression isolated outputs allow controlling two effects units simultaneously • compatible with any effect with a TRS expression input • range-adjust knob • 1/8-inch, 4-conductor output compatible with all Soundblox/2/ Pro pedals and Hot Hand • includes 1/4-inch TRS connector cable and 1/8-inch Sensor Output cableTarget Market Keyboard and effects control for stage or studioAnalysis An expression pedal is necessary to get the most out of effects and keyboards. Source Audio’s take differs from the norm, as it allows controlling two effects simultaneously.sourceaudio.net

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Elysia nvelope 500Stereo dynamics processor $1,049

Highlights Provides direct control over a signal’s envelope by shaping the attack and sustain intensity • Dual Band mode offers individual frequency controls for attack and sustain • true dual-mono or linked stereo operation in Full Range, Dual-Band or EQ mode • 2-space 500 Series formatTarget Market Recordists requiring a high-end, compact dynamics processor capable of handling various types of signal sourcesAnalysis The days of the traditional compressor with limited options are numbered, as companies like Elysia create hardware units with more transparency and variability, such as the nvelope 500’s impulse-shaping abilities.elysia.com